Materials
Buttons (2 holes, flat on both sides, at least 1" wide)
permanent color markers, optional
heavy-duty string (cotton or cotton-poly mix)
scissors
Instructions
1. If desired, let the children decorate the buttons with color markers before
assembling buzzers.
2. Cut 2' of string per button (the string must be strong enough to withstand
twists and rubbing but fine enough to slide easily through buttonholes).
Thread the string through both buttonholes. If desired, pre-treat one tip of
the string with glue and shape it to a point for easier threading.
3. Knot both ends of the string. Placing the button in the middle of the string,
the child places the knotted end of string over one index finger, and the other
end of the loop over the other index finger.
4. Touching index fingers to thumbs, the child swings the button in a circular
motion until the string is tightly twisted.
5. The child, always holding onto the string, gently pulls and releases the twisted
string in accordion fashion. The button will make a buzzing sound.
Note: Versions of this toy were used by colonial children, American Indian
children, and pioneer children. This activity could enrich a unit on any of these
three subjects.
